Everton's successful transfer window continued to materialize on Monday. Such a spending spree could have easily put them in a position to fight for the top 10 in the Premier League.
One of their big moves on Monday was securing another season-long loan for Manchester City forward Jack Grealish, who scored twice in 22 appearances for Everton last season.
The other took the form of USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, who scored three goals in four World Cup games this past summer. This move came after the club successfully sold Beto to Serie A side Fiorentina, with the $20 million fee giving the club the financial flexibility needed to pursue Balogun or another forward target.
Previously, Everton added defensive midfielder Christian Nørgaard from reigning Premier League champions Arsenal while completing a swap deal with Crystal Palace, sending Dwight McNeil to the Conference League winners for Brennan Johnson.
Wait, wait, wait.
My original draft for this article would have talked about how the Toffees were set up well to not only gain some ground in the Premier League with their new additions, but also how they could be poised for a deep run in the EFL Cup as a result of their transfer activity.
But circumstances have made me pivot. But it's OK, we're back on track.
Where was I? Oh yes.
Balogun will not be going to Everton
Why, you may ask?
Following the completion of the transfer, Balogun's medical with Everton prompted some second thoughts and a renegotiation with Ligue 1 side AS Monaco. Both sides had agreed to a new version of the transfer, and Everton was able to get an extension to the mandatory transfer window deadline in order to get the deal over the line. However, Balogun walked away from the renegotiation and opted to return to Monaco for the time being.
What's next?
Unless a move to Türkiye or Saudi Arabia appeals to Balogun, it seems that he will continue to play for Monaco for the time being. The January transfer window will be his next opportunity to earn a move from Monaco, though it remains to be seen what kind of options will materialize.
Will the medical impact his status within the USMNT?
Very likely not.
Though it's not necessarily common for a medical to be considered a failure, that alone shouldn't force the USMNT to reconsider Balogun's short-term future with the team. It might prompt some conversations, but the medical alone shouldn't change Balogun's chances at future USMNT appearances.
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